Santana Garcia is no stranger to disasters such as floods and hurricanes.  Santana has been an active Red Cross Volunteer for South Texas since 2009 where he has helped in many capacities including being a lead for Mass Care.  He has traveled throughout Texas as a disaster team volunteer in towns such as Beaumont, Cuero, Eagle Pass, Falfurrias and Alice to name a few cities.  Santana believes in helping people in need during disasters.  This time Santana was on the receiving end. 

Santana and his wife, Idalia and mother-in-law had to be rescued by the Harlingen Fire Department from their home on Friday, March 28 due to flood waters inside their home.  All 3 felt comfortable knowing that the shelter and Red Cross volunteers would take good care of them. 

Santana states, “I wish I could do more with the Red Cross, but I do what I can when I am not undergoing dialysis.  I know it is better to give than to receive, but I am fortunate to be taken care by a trusted organization such as the American Red Cross.  We are all strong at different times in our lives, but it’s okay to get help when needed.  I am deeply grateful for the assistance provided by the American Red Cross.”

If you have the time, you can make a significant impact as a Red Cross volunteer. Review our most urgently needed volunteer positions at redcross.org/volunteertoday and get involved today.

Story and Photograph by Juanita P. Casanova, Public Affairs Red Cross volunteer